Shift Up Now Athlete Michele Abbate announced yesterday that she will compete with Showtime Motorsports for the 2023 Trans Am TA2 National Tour.
Abbate will join TA2 teammate Dylan Archer, as well as Ken Thwaits and Justin Marks in the TA category. Showtime Motorsports will be the only team in the Trans Am paddock with a full effort in both TA and TA2.
After her 2022 debut in TA2, Abbate finished 21st out of 76 entrants for the championship season. While learning nine new tracks and gaining an abundance of experience, she earned six top-20 finishes and two Bassett Hard Charger awards.
Now, she looks forward to joining Showtime Motorsports, an established Trans Am team, for the 2023 season. The Las Vegas racer will be campaigning a Mike Cope Chevy Camaro with Crew Chief Derick Jennings. In addition, her current Crew Chief, Anthony Philleo will join the team as a car mechanic and spotter.
“I couldn’t be more excited and proud to be making this announcement,” said Abbate. “I am truly honored to be a part of the Showtime Motorsports team and I am laser focused as we head into the 2023 season. We were very impressed with the entire operation of the team at COTA, from car setup, knowledge, professionalism and the team's overall immediate positivity.”
"Showtime Motorsports is thrilled to have Michele on our team,” said team owner and TA driver Ken Thwaits. “She brings great driving talent and possesses star quality. We will provide a great marketing platform for the Ghost Energy, Lucas Oil and Scosche brands that Michele brings to the table.
“As currently the only woman in the very competitive TA2 class, she possesses a determination that is second to none. We look forward to providing her with top-notch equipment and intellectual power to succeed. Look for Michele as one of the stars in the upcoming MavTV series Road to Greatness debuting in February 2023.”
The full 2023 TA2 schedule includes 12 race weekends, beginning with Sebring International Raceway on February 23-26, 2023. Additional announcements will be made in the coming weeks to include title sponsor, vehicle livery and more. For more information, visit www.grrracing.com.